The Jets have not made the most high-profile moves to start off free agency, but they have been enough to potentially tweak general manager Joe Douglas’ strategy at the 2024 NFL Draft next month in Detroit.
Here is how we see things playing out:
Round 1, Pick 10: Rome Odunze, WR, Washington
Joe Douglas’ addressed the Jets’ largest void at the offensive tackle spots by bringing back Morgan Moses and signing Tyron Smith, meaning Gang Green has the flexibility to draft a legitimate, difference-making playmaker to pair with Garrett Wilson on the outside.
Round 3, Pick 72: Calen Bullock, S, USC
The Jets have already lost Jordan Whitehead this offseason and Ashtyn Davis is a free agent, meaning they are going to need some new talent at the safety position. Bullock shows plus range and recognition instincts as a center-fielding option, but his tackling must improve.
Round 4, Pick 111: Sataoa Laumea, OT, Utah
Depth at the tackle spot isn’t a bad thing, especially when it comes to keeping Aaron Rodgers on his feet and healthy this season. The 6-foot-4, 319-pound lineman is versatile enough to play both guard and tackle.
Round 4, Pick 135 (From Baltimore): Gabriel Murphy, EDGE, UCLA
After letting Bryce Huff walk to the Eagles, the Jets can go to the draft to provide options on the edge. He is an athletic pass rusher who has a decent arsenal of moves to get past his blocker but needs considerable polishing — most notably with his hand-work.
Round 6, Pick 186: Devin Leary, QB, Kentucky
A quarterback project could be something for the Jets to consider. After all, a young passer to learn under a future Hall of Famer certainly can’t hurt. Leary is a quick-armed, methodical passer who has exhibited good footwork and an ability to limit turnovers. It makes him a promising prospect in the short game, but there is some concern with his passing deep downfield.
Round 7, Pick 256: Rasheen Ali, RB, Marshall
A dual-threat running back who is uber-athletic could be considered a major sleeper to provide depth behind Breece Hall in the Jets backfield. He is strictly a playmaker, though, as he provides little in pass protection.
Round 7, Pick 257: Nathan Thomas, OT, Louisiana
“Mr. Irrelevant” this season will be another offensive lineman, just for good measure. Thomas has displayed quick footwork and easy power that provides a promising enough foundation to build on, but his hands and inability to get lower are two significant roadblocks.
